2024-10-22
What about systems with elements of both autocracy and democracy?
Special administrative region since 1984
Economically polarized, free, but under Chinese authority
Important for Chinese economy, but also in tension with governing structure
Chief executive elected by elites
Legislative branch is a mix of elites and popularly elected seats
Pro-regime faction vs. Pan-Democrats. Both sides use protest as a means to impose costs on others.
2003 security legislation
2006/2007 opposition to pier developments
2009 railway demonstrations
2012 Student’s protest
2013 TV licensure protests
Student sit-in protesting the demolition of Star Ferry pier
Each round of events leads to new organizations, media outlets, and noted activists entering the scene
Student walk-out (September 22, 2014)
Activists proposed an occupation of a central square in 2013, but had limited support
Event was planned for October 1 (a national holiday) but a handful of students jumped a fence in Civic Square on September 26 2014
Expanded contention
Non-violent but disruptive protests (umbrellas)
Polarization (emergence of anti-occupy protesters)